Addictions and Community Services Worker Program

Support a range of social assistance programs and help those in need as an Addictions and Community Services Worker through World Education.

How to Apply

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Connect with an advisor at World Education who will answer your questions, help you explore career options, and guide you through the admissions process — every step of the way.

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Change Lives as an Addictions and Community Services Worker

Make a real impact by helping individuals overcome life’s toughest challenges. Substance abuse—including the opioid crisis—has become one of the leading causes of death among youth and vulnerable communities across Canada. At the same time, many individuals and families face mental health struggles and social barriers that prevent them from living fully and independently.

At World Education, our program prepares you for a meaningful career supporting others on their journey to recovery and stability. Work in diverse environments such as mental health clinics, community health centers, shelters, and private practice—and become a catalyst for lasting change.

Did You Know?

1 in 5 Canadians have reported needing support for their mental health. This growing need highlights the critical role of Addictions and Community Services Workers in providing care, guidance, and support across communities.

Program Overview – Addictions and Community Services Worker

Offered by World Education

Program Type: Full-time
Program Length: 44 weeks (735 hours of instruction + 140-hour practicum)
Delivery Method: Hybrid (Online classes with in-person practicum)

This program has been reviewed and approved by the Registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) under the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

What You’ll Learn at World Education

In the Addictions and Community Services Worker program, you’ll gain the practical knowledge and tools to support individuals facing complex personal and social challenges. Key learning outcomes include:

  • Understanding the Role of Community Service Workers
    Learn how community service professionals contribute to the social well-being of individuals and communities, and explore the range of support services available in Canada.

  • Identifying At-Risk Behaviours
    Examine the behaviours and circumstances that place various groups at risk and how to respond effectively.

  • Mental Health, Addictions & Homelessness
    Explore the root causes behind these interconnected issues, and develop strategies for intervention, advocacy, and support.

  • Substance Abuse & Mental Illness
    Understand how substance abuse impacts individuals with mental health conditions and the challenges they face.

  • Pharmacotherapy & Mental Health Treatment
    Study how medications are used to treat mental health and addiction issues, and their effects on diagnosis and recovery.

  • Cultural Awareness in Counselling
    Examine how culture, identity, and diversity influence the client-counsellor relationship and affect care outcomes.

  • Navigating the Canadian Health Care System
    Learn about the healthcare resources and systems available to support individuals and families in need.

Student Story

“Ron is an incredible instructor who adapts his teaching style to meet each student’s learning needs. He makes it easy to follow along and truly understand the material. Every staff member I interacted with was kind and supportive. If I ever choose to pursue more training, I would 100% return to World Education.”

Jeanette Albinati
Graduate, Addictions and Community Services Worker Program

Admission Requirements

Enrollment Requirements

To apply for the Addictions and Community Services Worker program at World Education, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Hold a high school diploma or equivalent, or qualify as a mature student (19 years or older)

  • Complete a Student Declaration form

Scholarships & Financial Aid

At World Education, we’re committed to your success. Ask us about available scholarships, grants, and student aid options that may help reduce your tuition costs.

Practicum Requirements

Work Experience Eligibility

Students who meet the minimum academic and documentation requirements are eligible to complete the practicum portion of the Addictions and Community Services Worker program at World Education.

To qualify for work experience, students must:

  • Successfully complete all program courses

  • Achieve a minimum grade of 65% in each course

  • Provide the following documentation:

    • A clear criminal record check

    • A record of current immunizations

Earning Your Certificate

Graduation Requirements

To successfully graduate from the Addictions and Community Services Worker program at World Education, students must complete the following:


Core Courses

  • Addictions Fundamentals

  • Social Service Work Fundamentals

  • Psychology Fundamentals

  • Sociology Fundamentals

  • Ethics Fundamentals

  • Self-Care Techniques

  • Resources and Networking

  • Interview & Intake Procedures

  • Professional Report Writing

  • Family Studies

  • Mental Health Fundamentals

  • Behaviour Analysis Techniques

  • Pharmacology Fundamentals

  • Relapse Prevention

  • High-Risk Populations

  • Child & Youth Populations

  • *Third-Party Certificates

  • Practicum Work Experience

For detailed course descriptions, please contact an advisor.


Work Experience

Apply your classroom knowledge in a real-world setting with 100 hours of practicum work experience at a relevant community or healthcare organization.

Enrollment Timelines

Next intake deadline

Details coming soon — stay tuned!

Don’t Miss Your Chance!

There’s still time to submit your application before the next intake deadline at World Education. Fill out the form below to get started on your journey today.